Teaching is a profession that requires many qualities, including patience, understanding, dedication, and an intrinsic understanding of children. Growing up I didn’t think of myself as possessing these qualities, and I never considered teaching. However, a sudden desire to become an educator and a chance job offer led me to become a science teacher. Receiving the Presidential Award is affirmation that these qualities ARE within me, and that life has led me right where I belong.

Michele Adams Martinsburg, WV | K-6, Science, 2010

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Michele Adams has spent 20 years as a teacher in Berkeley County, WV, and has been in her current position as a sixth grade science teacher at Spring Mills Middle School for 7 years. Michele’s love of teaching has expanded beyond the classroom into many leadership roles, including mentoring others; facilitating programs; and presenting at the local, state, and national levels. In addition, her love of learning has led her to spend numerous hours in professional development in the United States and abroad. The highlight of her teaching career was achieved when she stood on the North Pole during a scientific research expedition while her students followed her journey back in their classroom in West Virginia. Michele has received the National Association of Geoscience Teachers Outstanding Earth Science Teacher Award for West Virginia and the West Virginia I.C. White Earth Science Educator Award. Michele has a B.A. in elementary education from Bowling Green State University and an M.A. in secondary science education from West Virginia University. She is certified in elementary education and general science, and she has received National Board Certification in early adolescence science.

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